The Controversial Ingredient In Cosmetic and Skincare

Parabens are chemicals used to preserve cosmetics, industrial products and pharmaceuticals. They're used to help preserve these products and to help prevent the growth of potentially harmful germs. The use of parabens is controversial and some people choose to avoid them because of a possible link to breast cancer. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) says parabens are safe for use by consumers.

Types
There are different types of parabens. According to the FDA, methylparaben, propylparaben and butylparaben are commonly used in cosmetics. Isobutylparaben, isopropylparaben and benzylparaben are other types of parabens.


Function
Parabens help health and beauty products maintain longer shelf lives. Parabens also help prevent microbial contamination in makeup. According to the FDA, parabens are often used with other preservatives. This helps keep the concentration of parabens low.

Identification
Consumers can read the labels of their favorite products to see if they contain any kind of parabens. By law, the ingredients must be listed on the label. Products that may contain parabens are moisturizers, hair care products, makeup, shaving products and personal lubricants. The FDA says most deodorants and antiperspirants don't contain parabens.

Benefits
The benefits of parabens include keeping cosmetic products from breaking down and giving them a longer shelf life. This helps keep products safer for consumers, which then helps companies' reputations and bottom lines.

Considerations
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review studied the safety of butylparaben, methylparaben and propylparaben in 1984. That study concluded that parabens are safe for use in cosmetic products at levels up to 25 percent. The FDA says parabens are "normally used at levels ranging from 0.01 to 0.3 percent."


Scientific Approval of Parabens
While the jury is still out---and the ACS and NCI agree that more research needs to be conducted---the majority of scientists agree that the low rate of estrogenic activity that parabens display, coupled with the small percentage of parabens found in cosmetics, drugs and food, ensure that parabens are safe. An analysis of the estrogenic properties of parabens published in "Critical Reviews in Toxicology" in 2005 proclaimed that the possibility of parabens increasing the risk of breast cancer was improbable.

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review, or CIR, first determined paraben use safe in cosmetics in 1984. CIR completed an additional assessment of parabens in 2005 based on additional findings and research, such as the 2004 study linking parabens to breast cancer. The CIR stands by its original assessment, maintaining the safety of paraben use.



Read more: http://www.livestrong.com/article/148982-paraben-safety/#ixzz1SomREoLf

A Tip Sheet For Pedicure DO’s and DON'Ts

Pedicure medical alert: If you have diabetes or poor circulation in your feet, consult a podiatrist so they can recommend a customized pedicure that both you and your salon can follow for optimal foot health.

Pedicure Do’s:

DO schedule your pedicure first thing in the morning. Salon foot baths are typically cleanest earlier in the day. If you’re not a morning person, make sure that the salon filters and cleans the foot bath between clients.
DO bring your own pedicure utensils to the salon. Bacteria and fungus can move easily from one person to the next if the salon doesn’t use proper sterilization techniques.
When eliminating thick, dead skin build-up, also known as calluses, on the heel, ball and sides of the feet, DO use a pumice stone, foot file or exfoliating scrub. Soak feet in warm water for at least five minutes then use the stone, scrub or foot file to gently smooth calluses and other rough patches.
When trimming nails, DO use a toenail clipper with a straight edge to ensure your toenail is cut straight across. Other tools like manicure scissors or fingernail clippers increase the risk of ingrown toenails because of their small, curved shape. See a podiatrist if you have a tendency to develop ingrown toenails.
To smooth nail edges, DO use an emery board. File lightly in one direction without using too much pressure, being sure not to scrape the nail’s surface.
DO gently run a wooden or rubber manicure stick under your nails to keep them clean. This helps remove the dirt and build-up you may or may not be able to see.
DO maintain the proper moisture balance of your feet’s skin by applying emollient-enriched moisturizer to keep soles soft.
DO use a rubber cuticle pusher or manicure stick to gently push back cuticles.
If toenails are healthy, DO use nail polish to paint toenails. Make sure to remove polish regularly using non-acetone nail polish remover.


Pedicure Don’ts:

DON’T shave your legs before receiving a pedicure. Freshly shaven legs or small cuts on your legs may allow bacteria to enter.
If you are receiving a pedicure and manicure, DON’T use the same tools for both services as bacteria and fungus can transfer between fingers and toes.
DON’T allow technicians to use a foot razor to remove dead skin. Using a razor can result in permanent damage if used incorrectly and can easily cause infection if too much skin is removed.
DON’T round the edges of your toenails. This type of shape increases the chances that painful ingrown toenails will develop.
Emery boards are extremely porous and can trap germs that spread. Since they can’t be sterilized, DON’T share nail files with friends and be sure to bring your own to the salon, unless you are sure that the salon replaces them with each customer.
DON’T use any sharp tools to clean under nails. Using anything sharp makes it easy to puncture the skin, leaving it vulnerable to infection.
DON’T leave any moisture between toes. Anything left behind can promote the development of athlete’s foot or a fungal infection.
Because cuticles serve as a protective barrier against bacteria, DON’T ever cut them. Cutting cuticles increases the risk of infection. Also, avoid incessantly pushing back cuticles, as doing so can make them thicker.
If you suffer from thick and discolored toenails, which could be a sign of a fungal infection, DON’T apply nail polish to cover up the problem. Nail polish locks out moisture and doesn’t allow the nail bed to “breathe.” Once you fix the underlying issue, then it is safe to paint nails. If the problem persists be sure to visit your podiatrist.
Source: American Podiatric Medical Association

The Doctors’ Secrets to a Lifetime of Clear Skin

Katie Rodan, M.D., and Kathy Fields, M.D., the dermatologist founders of billion-dollar blemish brand Proactiv:
Acne is the #1 skin disease in the world—in the U.S., 85 percent of people have it sometime in their lives.
They might do a number on your waistline, but sweets like chocolate and soda, and greasy foods like French fries don’t cause acne.
It may seem like the sun dries up your pimples, but sun exposure actually makes acne worse over time: Your skin sheds the UV-damaged cells, which clog pores and can trigger breakouts.
The dark spots that appear on skin after a blemish are called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation: Unlike acne scars, they’re not permanent but can take weeks to heal.
Don’t spot treat: The red pimple that erupts on your skin is actually the last stage of a blemish’s life. Always treat your whole face to attack acne at every stage (even when it’s not yet visible).
Keep products with the zit-fighting ingredient benzoyl peroxide away from clothes and fabrics; it’s oxidizing action will bleach them.
Avoid facial scrubs with ground fruit or nut bits, like apricot pits or walnut, when trying to deep-clean skin: Their sharp edges can make micro-tears in your skin, causing further inflammation and irritation.
Don’t wash your face more than twice a day: Stripping your skin of oil prompts your body to produce more, exacerbating acne and oiliness.

Sleeping Beauty

Sleeping Beauty

Sleep scientist Jan Yager, Ph.D. shared tips for getting your best beauty rest.

Discover your natural tendencies when it comes to true love!

Aries dives in with a thunderbolt of passion, and they won’t be slowed down for an instant. They’ll jump in with both feet, declare their undying love and let the chips fall where they may. Hopefully they’ll have picked a lover who likes being swept off their feet!

Taurus never moves fast. These folks like to take their time, so their neon-lit moment may take a while to catch fire. But once they’ve decided, they won’t be put off by any resistance or coyness from the apple of their eye -- they’ll stick around until they get what they want.

Gemini often hears bells and whistles, but they’re familiar with their own fickleness and may hold back until they’re sure it’s not just another passing whim. In the interim, they’ll chat so entertainingly that their potential lover will become smitten before long.

Cancer is definitely driven by their feelings ... but they’re also highly self-protective. They’ll approach their beloved cautiously and in the best crab-like fashion: sideways! This means that they’ll test the waters by introducing their new love interest to their family for approval before declaring their singular devotion.


Leo wears their heart on their sleeve. They certainly don’t like being rebuffed, but amid all their enthusiasm, they probably won’t consider that a possibility! They’ll shower their newfound love with compliments, expensive dinners and objets d’amour -- and expect a commitment within the week.

Virgo doesn’t go in for impulse decisions when it comes to love; rather, they’ll review their prospect with a somewhat detached eye as they try to spot any flaws. They’ll then likely persuade themselves that imperfections are a part of life and need to be accepted. And if the physical attraction is strong enough at the start, they’ll surely tumble head over heels.

Libra is known for their cool demeanor and indecisiveness, so they can often talk themselves out of love. They’ll weigh the pluses and minuses and think through all possible options -- and if their choice is still there after all this careful consideration, they might just allow themselves to fall hard.

Despite being a fixed sign, Scorpio can instantly go off the deep end when it comes to love. They’re quite intuitive and are rarely wrong about a prospective partner’s reactions. Conversely, they’re also very self-protective and insist on receiving positive feedback before laying their heart on the line.

Sagittarius is fiery to the point of recklessness, and rarely hesitates right out of the gate in a new relationship. In fact, it seems as if they have a guardian angel on their shoulder to make love happen the way they want. The Archer is also remarkably resilient, and always remembers that if this one doesn’t work out, the next one will.

Capricorn can be surprisingly sensual, but they’re also socially ambitious. Because of this, they may experience inner conflict about whether the object of their desire will be right for their lifestyle -- now and in the future. They’re not known to move quickly, and will instead give the relationship time to develop naturally.

Intimacy makes Aquarius nervous, so the prospect of a lifelong mate is daunting. The first thing they’ll probably do is introduce their new love interest to their social circle to see how they fit in; they’ll also flaunt their independence to see whether possessiveness will be an issue. Only then will they allow the relationship to grow -- and even then, gradually.

Pisces will know immediately when their dream of romance is standing right in front of them. But being forthcoming is not a Piscean strength, so like a true Water sign, they’ll do all they can to protect their insecurities. They’ll dance around and be elusive, and only when they feel secure will they make their feelings known.

An article by Majorie Orr for Astrology.com

Sothys Paris Newsletter

Sothys in a world of luxury and glamour.....
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BUY 1 FREE 1

FREE [W.]™+ Brightening Mask worth RM303 with purchase of [W.]™+ Brightening Double Action Serum worth RM495

Sothys Quality

Manufacturing of Sothys products is subject to the most rigorous quality standards applied in the pharmaceutical industry.
The products :
. are developed in a controlled atmosphere and in compliance with GMPs (Good Manufacturing Practices), OHSAS 18001 and ISO 9001.

. contain minimum preservatives in the formulas for maximum tolerance and safety: the harmlessness of Sothys products is scientifically proven.

. comply with the most stringent international regulations from the very start.

. offer total traceability, from their design to their placement on the market, notably via an in-house cosmetic surveillance department.

Sothys Garden

Sothys, or harmony with nature: the Jardins Sothys™ (“Sothys Gardens”) in their preserved setting represent a natural laboratory dedicated to the exploration of the plant world and its prodigious active ingredients

Located in Auriac in the Corrèze region, the homeland of the Mas family, this exceptional botanical garden has become the main source of inspiration for Sothys research. Inspired by this remarkable site, where beauty is cultivated like an art of living, an advanced Research division now promotes the discovery of unique and natural active ingredients exclusive to Sothys.

A strong symbol expressing all of the brand’s respect for Nature and for the natural benefits of plants, the Jardins Sothys™ also aim to emphasise a real commitment to sustainable development.

This commitment is reflected by Sothys’s participation in the Eco-packaging Charter, its focus on Eco-design and its ISO 14001 certification since August 2010.

Sothys's Family Business

Sothys is a family business that has inherited a long tradition of quality and excellence, based on human values and French production.


Since 1966, and handed down from father to son, the passion of the Mas family has enlivened the Sothys brand and driven it forward. Today, the third generation of the Mas family – brothers Christian and Frédéric – oversee the company. The administrative headquarters, laboratories and production site are still located in Brive-la-Gaillarde at the heart of the Corrèze region, while the prestigious address on the Faubourg Saint-Honoré in Paris has represented the beauty salon from the beginning.

The dynamic of Sothys springs from the brand’s ability to maintain its identity while offering new solutions in the constantly evolving beauty world.

The Mythology.

Sothys was the name the Ancient Egyptians gave to the brightest star in the sky;

she symbolized to them eternal beauty.

During a heavenly night, Saturn met the young star Sothys

– even Venus never seemed so beautiful.

Their meeting was astonishing and Saturn was overwhelmed with passion for her;

this threw the regular rhythm of the stars into confusion.

Venus could not bear the fact she was not anymore the most beautiful star in the sky.

She took her revenge and Sothys fell into the dark of the night and disappeared.

Saturn cried over forty days and forty nights and flooded the Earth.

During centuries, the world heard nothing about Sothys until the day when...

Sothys reappeared to deliver her secret to the Earth :

she dedicated herself to women in order to preserve their beauty and happiness.

As a tribute, Men venerated her as a Goddess.

Introduction to Sothys-Perfect Skin

Perfect Skin
A visibly perfect skin… the ultimate sign of beauty. A targeted treatment is necessary to obtain a smooth and uniform skin with refined skin grain. Sothys innovative research has resulted in a line of specific care products for skin care Institutes: Pore refiner system in order to meet consumer demands with a customized solution.


PERFECT THE SKIN > Pore refiner system

Pore refiner system works at the heart of the skin to boost the pool of healthy cells and bring out a perfect complexion by reducing enlarged pores.


FOR RAPID ACTION
Refining Peel-Off Mask
> Its innovative texture rapidly eliminates impurities and tightens skin grain to bring out a lighter and fresher complexion.
The skin is softer, lighter and cleaner… instantaneously.

Complexion perfector
> A second skin effect with an ultra-soft touch to cover and reduce the appearance of pores, to matify the skin and to provide a perfect illuminator under make-up.



FOR A TREATMENT EFFECT
Matifying Refiner Solution
> For chronic combination to oily skin and for skin whose pores are momentarily enlarged.
Its high-tech formula contains high concentrations of targeted active products to tighten skin grain and reduce shininess, to create a more uniform and illuminated complexion.

Smoothing Refiner Solution
> For skin with collapsed pores resulting from skin ageing.
Its high-tech formula is concentrated in active substances to visibly tighten pores and smooth by a tensor effect and to boost radiance.

Introduction to Sothys-Renovate

Renovate
Day after day the skin faces aggressions. The skin is resistant and repairs itself but can become unbalanced and no longer able to defend itself. The skins runs out of resources, loses its radiance and its youthful appearance.
Sothys has prepared an emergency programme to boost the pool of healthy skin cells. The exclusive Sothys H2CR® Cosmeceutical Complex has resulted from the latest scientific progress in the fields of genomics and antioxidants. It provides rapid response, supplying the skin with the means to function normally, effectively and for a long time.


RENOVATE > [C] RENEWAL SYSTEM™


[C] Renewal System™ home cares
FOR OVER-WORKED AND STRESSED SKINS


Micro-Dermabrasion Mask
> A combination of mechanical and chemical exfoliation to refine skin grain, smooth the epidermis, and impart new radiance to the complexion.

Double Renewal System
> Phase I: Peeling composed of glycolic acid for a long-lasting exfoliating action.
> Phase II: Comfort solution with H2CR® Cosmeceutical Complex. To eliminate toxins, repair and renew the texture while soothing. Non-comedogenic.

Continuous Renewal Care
> A real « cellular fitness » with the H2CR® Cosmeceutical Complex for complete renewal of the skin: skin shows the radiance and vitality of its youth, and is detoxified, repaired and re-textured.

Non-comedogenic.

Introduction to Sothys- Target

Target
Depending on your physical environment and the aggressions undergone by your skin, certain areas become fragile and require priority treatment.

TARGET > ACTIVE-CONTOUR
THE EYES


PROFESSIONAL CARE

Active-Contour™

> The global eye contour response obtained is a leading edge technology between science and nature. A treatment to soothe congested eyelids and smooth the eye contour, and leave you feeling relaxed and fresh.

> Proven efficiency.

HOME CARE
Active-Contour™ Tensor gel
> A fresh and energizing gel, to revitalize the eye contour and decrease the look.
Active-Contour™ Age-defying cream
> An intensive cream with high tech plant active ingredients for a skin that is revitalized and remodeled, with under-eye circles and wrinkles attenuated / reduced. > Proven efficiency.
Active-Contour™ destressing mask
> A translucent gel to remove bags under the eyes, whose freshness comes from cornflower, camomile, witch hazel and sage.

TARGET > COMPLEMENTARY CARES
Seasonal changes, passing tiredness… your skin needs punctual and appropriated cares, in complement with your usual cares.


IDEAL FOR VERY COLD WEATHER
Rich nourishing cream
> A nourishing and moisturizing cream* providing elevated comfort, rich in shea butter and beeswax.



NEW-FOUND RADIANCE


PROFESSIONAL CARE
Flash Beauty
> Anti-stress and radiant skin treatment, containing vitamin C

Introduction to Sothys- Correct

[W.]™+ BRIGHTENING COMPLEX
The passage of time is shown not only by wrinkles. A dull complexion and pigmented spots are equally visible signs that can prematurely age the face. Sothys new formulation [W.]™+ preserves the radiance and uniformity of the skin colour.

Preparative Lotion

> A treatment lotion to moisturize, smooth and impart new radiance to the complexion at the same time as preparing the skin for other products in the programme.



Double Action Serum
> This intensive cosmeceutical treatment provides light, uniformity and perfection to the complexion and has a targeted action on pigment spots. The skin regains and preserves its transparency, uniformity and radiance.
phase 1 : Brightening Solution
phase 2 : Peeling



Brightening Fluid
> A light, melting emulsion that brightens the complexion day after day… As a result of an innovative illuminating agent the skin looks visibly younger.

Introduction to Sothys- Moisturize

Moisturize*


You can feel it, your skin is visibly beautiful when it is perfectly hydrated. Do you know that its principal source of water is located in the centre of your own cells? With HYDROPTIMALE® THI3, Sothys revolutionizes the hydration concept and launches the first sensorial programme of 3 dimension intelligent hydration.

HYDROPTIMALE® THI3


HYDROPTIMALE® THI3 INTENSIVE TREATMENT
> A 3 dimension High-Hydration treatment. The skin is once again soft and comfortable in a real moment of pleasure of your senses that alternates Digi-Esthétique® modelling and delightful products.



HOME CARE
The essentials of a delightful and relaxing treatment in your bathroom.



Hydroptimale® THI3 Intensive Serum
> A hydration concentrate to restore absolute comfort to the skin and an immediate hydration: up to 63% hydration*




NORMAL TO COMBINATION SKIN
Hydroptimale® THI3 Light cream
> An ultra-fresh and melting texture on the skin for a delightful application.



NORMAL TO DRY SKIN
Hydroptimale® THI3 Comfort cream
> A smooth and comfortable skin that acts as a veritable hydrating envelope.



* Corneofix measurements – test conducted over 20 persons, using the hydrating serum at home on half the face and the hydrating cream on the whole face

Introduction to Sothys- Anti Aging

Anti-ageing
New cosmeceutical anti-ageing programme, Sothys created and patented*


In cabin, the [C] Collagène Hyaluronique™ Intensive Treatment:
The new customized Intensive Treatment [C] Collagène Hyaluronique™ , allying technology with an exclusive modelling technique, values Sothys beauty therapists’s know-how, through the new Digi-Esthétique® approach. The anti-ageing diagnosis made before the beginning of the treatment, allows the adaptation of the treatment according to the customer’s grade and to recommend adapted retail products.



A 5 phase treatment…

Phase 1: Exfolate / Stimulate with the Mineral micro-dermabrasion Mask
Phase 2: Smooth / Fill in with a Hyaluronic replenish serum for an « injection-like » effect of wrinkle filling.
Phase 3: Restructure the skin with the Elasticity revealer serum
Phase 4: Plumping with the plumping balm Digi-Esthétique® omega-H2CR®
Phase 5: Lift with the collagen lifting mask
Final phase: Application of the adapted anti-ageing serum. For the first time, the retail serum is applied in professional application.

The new Sothys Anti-ageing IT is a substitute of dermato-aesthetic techniques with a scientific proven efficiency. On average, people think that they won back 4 years (test on 41 people : opinion of 90% of people)



Four retail serums and six creams to prolong benefits at home:



Proven efficiency!
92% of the participants were satisfied with the overall efficiency of the products. Satisfaction test conducted on 117 participants who used the anti-ageing creams during a month.





Grade 1 – Fine wrinkles, temporary expression wrinkles
First wrinkles revitalizing Serum
Objective: REVITALIZE
Active ingredients : H2CR® Complex, sugar (cellular energy booster).
Efficiency : The skin is revitalized, luminous, and smoothed.

Anti-Ageing Cream Grade 1
Objective: SMOOTH
Active ingredients: Active anti-ageing shield Grade 1. Di-peptide + oat extract for the smoothing action.
Efficiency: Day after day fine lines are smoothed, the skin is radiant.



Grade 2 – Permanent wrinkles
Anti-wrinkle lifting serum
Objective:FILL WRINKLES
Active ingredients : H2CR® complex, hyaluronic acid in solution (for an “injection-like” effect)
Efficiency: The wrinkles are visibly reduced, the skin keeps its tone and shape.

Anti-ageing cream grade 2*
Objective: ANTI-WRINKLE, PRESERVE THE CONTOUR OF THE FACE Active ingredients: Active anti-ageing shield Grade 2. Cyperus esculentus tuber extract for the anti-wrinkle action.
Efficiency: Day after day, the lines are smoothed, the wrinkles are softened. The contour of the face is preserved.



* Available in comfort version for dry skins



Grade 3 – Deep wrinkles, cutaneous slackening (loss of tone)
Anti-wrinkle restructuring Serum
Objective: RE-ARCHITECTURE
Active ingredients : H2CR® Complex, dill extract (to facilitate the re-architecture of face)
Efficiency: The skin is resurfaced and firmer, the features are remodelled.

Anti-ageing cream grade 3**
Objective: ANTI-WRINKLE, REMODELLING
Active ingredients: Active anti-ageing shield Grade 3. Proteins and peptide complex: target the collagen production for an anti-wrinkle and firmness effect.
Efficiency : Day after day, the skin is smoother and firmer. The wrinkles are as erased, the lines are remodelled.




** Available in comfort version for dry skins.



Grade 4 – Advanced signs of ageing / Loss of substance and brightness.
Replenishing anti-ageing Serum
Objectif: REPLENISH AGEING SKINS
Active ingredients :H2CR® complex, Sothys flax complex enriched withn nutri-peptides (essential cellular nutrition to regain youth and brightness).
Efficiency: The skin is smoothed, firmed. Density and texture are restored. 95% of participants said their skin has found the essence of its youth (Satisfaction index, test on 24 people for 30 days)

Anti-ageing cream Grade 4
Objective: REVEAL THE ESSENCE OF A YOUNGER SKIN
Active ingredients: Active anti-ageing shield Grade 4. Lupine peptides : cell activator to reveal the overall beauty of the skin.
Efficiency: The skin is smoothed, firmer, regenerated. The skin becomes radiant and comfortable again.

Introduction to Sothys- Maintain

Maintain
Everyone has its particular nature... Your skin has got its own characteristics. To help maintain its health for a long time, your skin needs an appropriated regular daily care.

REGULATE

OILY SKIN

CORRECTING PROFESSIONAL TREATMENT
> A multi-active care for problem skins : absorption of sebaceous impurities (tea tree oil) and intense exfoliation with salicylic acid. For a clear complexion, a fresh and healthy skin.


HOME CARE

Hydra-matt fluid
> A biotechnological compound for this fresh and light gel to reduce shine, moisturize* and protect.


Active cream


> Soft and soothing with liquorice extracts and biostimuline from sweet corn.
Purifying serum
> Purifying and stabilising. Apply locally on skin blemishes.


NOURISH
Nutritive comfort cream

> a soft veil of ultra-nutrition.


Essential lipid elixir
> Original concept: A solution for all skins (ex cept oily) to protect against dryness. Ultra – Nourishing, this treatment immediately softens and reduces sensations of discomfort in the skin.


SOOTHE

SENSITIVE SKIN
Immuniscience™ fluid
> Emergency care, with a light texture, specially designed for ultra-sensitive skins. Hypoallergenic**.
Immuniscience™ cream
> A new formula with hydrating* and soothing agents to protect the epidermis from the daily aggressions.


LIGHTEN THE SKIN


SKIN WITH FRAGILE CAPILLARIES
Clarté & Confort Light cream and Protective cream
> Daily care to fight imbalances of skins with fragile capillaries. Regulate, soothe and protect fragile skins.
Clarté & Confort Concentrated serum
> A highly efficient concentrated formula. Contains natural polyphenols with proven properties of regulation, protection, and immediate soothing effect to diffuse redness skins.


PROTECT

NORMAL TO COMBINATION SKIN
Hydra-Protective Sothys™ softening emulsion
> A free-flowing cream containing chaparral and powder for a matt skin, to protect and moisturize*.
Hydra-Protective Sothys™ cream
> Protection and comfort from this cream containing chaparral and corn seed biostimulins.



* hydration of the superficial layers of the epidermis.
** formulated to minimize allergic risks.

Introduction to Sothys-Essential Masks

Essential masks


PURIFY AND SOFTEN
Absorbant Mask
A formulation enriched with absorbent powders and menthol for a clear complexion and clean, shine-free, healthy skin.



SOOTHE
Immuniscience™ Mask
A fresh creamy mask.



FOR A HYDRATED AND SUPPLE SKIN
Hydroptimale® THI3 Mask
Moisture-quenching mask for an immediate freshness effect and a hydration bath for your skin.



FOR SMOOTHING AND TENSOR EFFECT
Anti-ageing Duo Mask
> Smooth fine wrinkles.
> Immediate firming effect.
> Revitalize, restore radiance.

Mask made up of two products : Phase 1 Radiance smoothing mask + Phase 2 Tightening mask.



FOR THE BRIGHTNESS AND RADIANCE
Brightening Mask [W.]™+
This creamy-rich mask with [W.]™+ brightening complex leaves skin luminous soft and confortable.

Introduction to Sothys- Cleanse

Normalizing beauty milk
> With grapefruit. For resilient and soft skin.
Normalizing lotion
> With witch hazel, horsetail and cucumber, alcohol-free.

Cleanse
Eliminating dead cells that accumulate every day on the surface of the epidermis prepares your skin to receive the appropriated skincare products and optimize absorption of the active ingredients. The first essential step towards beauty.


MAKEUP REMOVAL

OILY SKIN
Purifying milk
> With camphor. For clear and fresh skin.
Purifying lotion
> No alcohol or fragrances. For a light complexion.


SENSITIVE, DRY AND SKINS PRONE TO REDNESS
Softening beauty milk
> Unctuous and soothing, for a supple and soft skin.
Softening lotions
> Soothing, with natural extracts, alcohol-free.


ALL SKIN TYPES
Bi-phased soft make-up removing fluid eyes-lips
> Removes all make-up, including waterproof products, from eyes and lips. Ophtalmologically tested.



CLEANSE

ALL SKIN TYPES
Morning cleanser
> An ultra-gentle, vitamin-containing formula (sweet almond oil, shea butter, camomile extract).


OILY SKIN
Purifying foaming gel
> With propolis. For a purified complexion.



DEEP CLEANSE

ALL SKIN TYPES
Desquacrem
> Clarifying and astringent active ingredients to help eliminate persistent impurities and for a radiant complexion.
Biological skin peeling
> With oat and beeswax extracts. For a skin as smooth as silk.

The Dukan Diet

Stage One: The Attack Phase
The attack phase allows for an unlimited quantity of protein to be consumed. This includes low-fat meat such as beef, fish and seafood, eggs and zero fat dairy products. You can not use oil, cream or butter and may not fry the meat. It is important that you drink at least 1.5 L of water per day and you can also drink tea and coffee with sweeteners but strictly no sugar.
The meat needs to be 10% fat or lower and you must trim the fat or skin from any meat or poultry. It is it is highly recommended that you take vitamin and mineral supplements during this period. A brisk 20 minute walk each day is an important part of the routine. No more than two eggs or four yolks per week if you have high cholesterol. This stage will be between 3-10 days depending on how much weight you need to lose.



Stage Two: The Cruise Phase
the next stage of the diet will make up the bulk of the plan. In this phase we alternate between a pure protein stage and a protein with vegetable stage. You are free to decide on the length of each stage of what she decided must be a consistent length usually between three and 10 days with five days in optimal. The protein phase is the same as the attack phase of the vegetable phase allows you to add most vegetables while avoiding very starchy ones like potatoes, rice, corn, please, beans, lentils and avocados. Somewhat starchy foods like carrots and beetroots .




Stage Three: Consolidation
For every pound that we have lost during our diet we must stay in this phase for five days. For example if we have lost two stone we would be in consolidation mode for about five months (2×14x5/30).
We are now allowed to readjust by introducing some more tasty foods such as one serving of fruit per day, 1 to 2 servings of starchy food per week (one serving during the first half of this stage and two during the second half), two slices of wholemeal bread with low-fat butter per day and one serving of hard cheese per day. We can also introduce more fatty meats such as goose.
The real bonus of this stage of the diet is that we must eat two “celebration meals” per week. These consist of three full courses of whatever we want, complete with bread and butter, alcohol and chocolate. It is, however, key that we only have one serving for each course. The aim here is to return to an enjoyable but balanced diet, not to make gluttons of ourselves! The fantastic thing is, this is not a suggestion, this is a doctor’s orders. Dr Dukan insists that we must eat these enjoyable meals to begin readjusting our bodies to a more balanced diet.


Stage Four: Stabilisation
This is the final stage and will last as the rest of our lives. It is very easy to maintain but it is also by far the most important stage. Now that we have reached our goal weight, we do not want to fall foul of what most dieters fall foul of: putting the weight straight back on again, often with interest! Simply by maintaining a balanced diet of enjoyable food and committing to one day a week of pure protein we will maintain our ideal weight forever.

The Dukan Diet and alcoholic drinks

It is often said that France is the nation that drinks the most wine in the world and this is true. Yet, it has not stopped 10 million French people from following my diet and giving up alcohol to then drink again in "normal doses" during the Consolidation phase and even more so in the permanent Stabilization phase.
When I decided to take my method across the Channel, my publishers, my translators, journalists and in fact everyone told me to adapt my diet to fit with the Anglo-Saxon way of life and make some allowance for alcohol, beer, scotch and pubs. I listened to them and after weighing up the pros and cons I decided not to. Not because I uphold rigid moral standards and even less to simply contradict them but because losing weight is no easy matter; you have to take ownership and be really motivated.
Very often people put on weight with an "All or Nothing" attitude as they go from being strict to lax. To lose weight you have to re-adopt this approach: either go for it wholeheartedly or do nothing. Between both extremes, you slow down your metabolism, your results and motivation - and you lose the battle. Don't ever forget that a properly followed diet only lasts a few months and this is so little compared with all the benefits dieting brings you.
Pierre Dukan



Any drink containing ethyl alcohol or ethanol is termed an alcoholic drink.
Alcohol is considered to be both a nutrient (a nutritional element) since our bodies can metabolize it and a food since it provides us with calories.
Alcohol is obtained from the fermentation of carbohydrates in a certain number of products: fruits, cereals and even some vegetables/starchy foods and leaves.
The plants are soaked in water then fermented to produce alcohol.
Alcoholic drinks are divided into two categories:
• Non-distilled alcoholic drinks: wine, beer, cider.
• Distilled alcoholic drinks or spirits: aperitifs and whiskies, liqueurs, rum, vodka, etc.


The history of alcohol
Grapes were growing in the Near East in the Tertiary period.
In 5,000 or 6,000 B.C. the first men started crushing grapes to get the juice out of them and from this wine developed.
Distillation dates back to before 2,000 B.C.
For a long time alcohol was also considered to be medicine.
Aperitifs (from the Latin "aperire" meaning "to open") open up and enhance our appetite.


Alcohol and energy
Alcohol is always stated as a percentage of the volume (% vol) on the labels on bottles.
To arrive at the alcohol content in grams, you have to multiply the drink's alcohol content by 0.8.
E.g.: one litre of 10° vol wine contains 10 volumes per 100 of alcohol, i.e. 100ml (10° x 10), which is equivalent to 80g of pure alcohol for one litre (100ml x 0.8).
1 gram of alcohol produces 7 calories. 1 glass is the equivalent of 10g of alcohol or in energy 70kCal or 290kJ.
3 glasses of wine can therefore substitute the energy you get from 1 whole meal but unfortunately they provide no substitute for the vitamins, minerals and trace-elements found in food.
When alcohol supplies superfluous calories that then get added to the calories provided by our food this results in weight gain.


Equivalences between different types of alcohol
One 10cl glass of red or white bordeaux wine is equivalent to:
- One glass of champagne
- One 7cl glass of a wine based 18° vol aperitif
- One 25cl glass of 5° vol beer
- One 2.5cl shot of 45° vol whisky or pastis or brandy

Carbohydrate intake
The sugar content in a 10cl glass of wine is the same as in:
- 30g of aperitif liqueurs, sodas, tonics
- 10g of fruit drinks, orange or lemon juice
- 6g of sweet white wine, sweet cider or beer
- 4g of tomato juice

Alcohol and how it is used in the body
Alcohol gets into the bloodstream very quickly then spreads rapidly into the different organs and tissues. A small part of the alcohol absorbed (less than 10 %), is eliminated through our urine, sweat and breathe.
Alcohol provides a lot of energy but this is not used primarily for muscular activity.
The calories it provides help increase body fat (½ litre of 10° vol wine adds an extra 20g fat to our cells).
Alcohol acts straightaway on our nervous system causing us to be exhilarated, uninhibited and giving us a feeling of stimulation.
Lastly, we secrete less of our anti-diuretic hormone when we drink alcohol and this dehydration in turn makes us feel thirsty.


How alcohol can help keep you healthy
2 glasses of wine a day can play a role in preventing risks of dying from cardio-vascular diseases. Alcohol increases good cholesterol (HDL).
Due to its polyphenols it acts as an anti-oxidant.


Alcohol and your health
In several circumstances it is recommended that you cut alcohol out of your diet altogether and in particular if you suffer from dyslipidaemia (i.e. you have an abnormal amount of lipids in your blood), if you are taking medication, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, if you are a child or teenager or if you have a liver related pathology.

Over many years excessive alcohol consumption may result in chronic health problems.

Alcohol level in the blood
The alcohol level in the blood = Quantity of alcohol in grams / (Weight in kg x Diffusion coefficient)

This coefficient is 0.70 for men and 0.60 for women.


Regulations
The EU Council Regulation no 1576/89 of 29 May 1989 lays down general rules on the definition, description presentation of spirit drinks.


Categories of alcohol

Alcohol is split into 5 categories:

• Wine
• Spirits
• Cider
• Beers
• Other types of alcohol


Alcohol in the Dukan method
Drinking alcohol when you are dieting will prevent you from achieving motivating results and this is why it is not allowed.

However, it can be used when cooking because when it is heated the alcohol evaporates during the cooking process.

For sauces that have little fat, alcohol is a great way of adding flavour.

Cooking wine is tolerated during the cruise phase, up to 3 tablespoonfuls per day if you cook with the lid off.

Read more at www.dukandiet.co.uk